By Erewunmi Peace

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has officially inaugurated the first commercial flight at the Gateway International Airport, marking a historic milestone in the state’s aviation and economic development journey.

The maiden flight, operated by ValueJet Airline, departed from the newly completed airport in Ilishan-Remo around 10:10 a.m. on Tuesday, carrying 90 passengers bound for Abuja.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Governor Abiodun described the event as “a dream fulfilled” and a “testament to the vision of positioning Ogun State as an industrial and logistics hub of Nigeria.” He emphasized that the airport’s operational launch will boost trade, tourism, and investment opportunities in the state.

The event was attended by key aviation stakeholders, including officials from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and other industry representatives who lauded the project for meeting international standards.

The Gateway International Airport, strategically located along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, is designed to handle both passenger and cargo operations. It is expected to decongest traffic from Lagos airports and enhance regional connectivity across Southwest Nigeria.

ValueJet’s Chief Operating Officer commended the Ogun State Government for providing a world-class facility, pledging the airline’s commitment to sustaining regular passenger operations on the new route.

Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to completing other ongoing infrastructural projects, adding that the Gateway International Airport will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and global recognition for the state.